A few weeks after installing its new steeple, Central Church of Christ is welcoming a new preacher.

Jerrie Barber, a widely respected preacher who’s served congregations from Indiana into the Deep South, begins duties as interim minister at Central this Sunday. His inaugural sermon will be in regular worship services starting at 10:30 a.m.

“Jerrie and his wife, Gail, come to us at a very exciting time in the 200-year history of McMinnville’s Central Church of Christ,” said Doug Bost, one of the elders. “Central has entered a period of revitalization and renewed growth. We invite our friends and neighbors from across the community to join us for worship Sunday and consider Central as their new church home if they are not already attached to a local church.”

Barber and his wife, Gail, will be establishing residence here this weekend. Married in August 1964, the couple has two children, six grandchildren and two great-grandsons. A native of Centerville TN, Barber attended Freed-Hardeman University and graduated with a BA in bible from Lipscomb University in 1967.

On his website, Barber outlines his working philosophy as a professional “interim.” 

“A trained intentional interim minister can be helpful to lead the congregation through this time of transition,” he states on his website. “Preparation and experience are helpful.  Signing a contract that he will not consider or permit himself to be considered as the next preacher is essential.”

Central resumed in-person congregate services May 17 after several weeks of online-only worship. In accordance with guidance from the CDC and the Tennessee Department of Health, the church is taking precautions to promote social distancing and greeting practices that avoid handshakes and hugs. The elders also encourage elderly persons and those with underlying health problems to follow the services through Central’s internet offerings.